KXnO is putting a local voice back in Des Moines afternoons. Former Lazer 103.3 host Mike Wickett takes over the 2-5 p.m. weekday slot effective immediately.
What We Know: The move comes three months after iHeartMedia layoffs ended KXnO’s local programming. Before Wickett’s arrival, Sean Roberts and Lucas Strain held the 2-5 p.m. slot with Off The Bench. Both were part of the recent layoffs by the company. Wickett, meanwhile, is a familiar Des Moines voice. He co-hosted Lazer 103.3 mornings from 2021 until March. More recently, Wickett has been manning weekend programming on Westwood One Sports.
What They Said: Mike Wickett (via Facebook): “NEW SHOW ALERT!! I’M BAAAAACK! Starting TUESDAY, I’m back LIVE on air every weekday from 2-5p talking sports in Des Moines on KXNO! And yes, I’m still doing my national shows on Westwood One! Special thanks to Gregg Henson, Tony Travatto & Ryan Maguire!”
What Remains Unclear: Wickett’s post did not mention any additional talent joining the program. It’s also unclear whether KXnO plans to restore more local programming.
What It Means: For KXnO, the hire returns a live local voice to afternoon drive. That matters in a market where listeners pushed back hard on iHeart’s 2020 and more recent 2026 layoffs. Moreover, Wickett brings built-in familiarity after five years on Des Moines mornings. Ultimately, the move suggests iHeart still sees value in local content at its Iowa flagship.
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